In basketball, the term "breaking ankles" refers to a particularly impressive dribbling or crossover move that one player puts on an opponent. The term describes the player with the ball being so elusive that the defender futilely scrambles, often getting tripped up over themselves and falling in a heap. In a "broken ankle" play, the defender rarely suffers a broken ankle, but it's possible for them to experience another type of injury. If you've suffered one of the following injuries as a result of this play, visit a sports injury clinic.

Groin Strains

When a ball handler crosses over in front of you and you move in a futile effort to stop them, you can often get your legs spread apart in your confused state. This motion can result in groin strain. Groin strains vary significantly in their severity. A minor one might be enough to play through, while a major one can have you hobbling to the bench and in need of attention from your team's athletic trainer — and further care from a sports injury health professional. If you think you have suffered from this condition, contact a sports injury clinic.

Knee Injuries

You might not break an ankle when you fall victim to a highlight play of the same name, but you could develop a knee injury. The types of knee injuries that you can suffer vary significantly. If you trip as you try to move from one side to the other, you may simply get tangled up and fall hard on one of your knees, leading to a bruise that causes discomfort. In the more severe cases, you could strain or even tear one of the tendons in your knee — including your ACL or MCL — which would all but certainly end your basketball season.

Finger Injuries

Basketball games can pose a threat to the health of your fingers in a variety of ways, including when you fall awkwardly as a result of an opponent "breaking your ankles" and getting around you with the ball. Falling to the court is a concern because it's possible that your opponent will step on one of your fingers. They won't do so with ill intent, but rather do so accidentally. A stepped-on finger could suffer a break, dislocation, or ligament damage. Should you experience any basketball-related injury, be sure to schedule a visit with a sports injury specialist.

Contact a sports injury clinic for more information. 

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